Ruth Hopkins: NCAI speech omits some more pressing issues

Monday, February 18, 2013  

"This past Thursday, Jefferson Keel, President of the National Congress of American Indians, delivered the 11th Annual State of the Indian Nations Address.

Mr. Keel gave a standard political speech. I’m sure it appeased wealthy tribes and mainstreamed Natives. However, I found myself asking what Indian country the NCAI represents, because I hardly recognized the one he described.

Yes, Indian country is strong- thanks to the tenacity and fortitude of our people. Still, that strength should not mitigate the dire straits some tribes still find themselves in, nor is it an excuse not to posit real solutions for the most serious issues we face."

Get the Story:
Ruth Hopkins: Who Does NCAI Represent? (Indian Country Today 2/17)